Book Review of Tales For Tra-La-La Day
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The Children’s Book Review
Tales For Tra-La-La Day
Written by Steve Michael Reedy
Illustrated by Tom Fee
Ages: 7+ | 222 Pages
Publisher: Monkey Mind Tales (2024) | ISBN: 9781638370284
What to Expect: Magical Realism, Moral Parables, and Rhythmic Prose
In this enchanting finale to the Monkey Mind Tales® series, Steve Michael Reedy weaves together six mesmerizing stories that dance between whimsy and wisdom, creating a tapestry of tales centered around the magical, fictitious holiday of Tra-La-La Day.
Each of the six standalone pieces, presented in a chapter-like format, contributes to a larger narrative about community, personal growth, and the importance of mindful living—each one framed through the eyes of a traveler (a monkey) traveling to celebrate this beloved holiday. Reedy uses various characters and tales that show that growth and transformation, while sometimes uncomfortable, are essential parts of life’s journey. From a young girl’s discovery of a powerful annual song to the Iceling Queen’s race against time to a story of a centerpiece contest that cleverly examines community values and environmental impact to Miss Pinberry’s tale that explores the delicate balance between authority and genuine care, the six carefully crafted parables delve into fundamental aspects of the human experience.
Throughout each tale, Reedy uses his distinct writing style of rhythmic prose and fantastical narratives that help maintain a sense of wonder and adventure, making these stories ideal for both silent readings and reading aloud. This stylistic choice enhances the book’s ability to engage young readers while maintaining the sophistication needed to explore its deeper themes—environmental consciousness, overconsumption, self-esteem, and the nature of love—which he does with nuance.
Tom Fee’s black-and-white silhouette-style illustrations complement the narrative perfectly, adding a layer of visual intrigue that enhances the story’s mystical atmosphere.
A compelling conclusion to the Monkey Mind Tales® series, Tales For Tra-La-La Day is more than just a collection of children’s stories; it’s a thoughtful exploration of what it means to be human, packaged in a format that speaks to readers of all ages. Well-blended between entertainment and enlightenment, this is a great winter read for those who like their slightly dark and twisted tales littered with light that seeps through the cracks, leading the reader to better days—if only they heed the advice hidden within the stories.
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About the Author
Steve Michael Reedy, MA, LPC, received his undergraduate degree in Theatre, Film, and Television at the University of California, Los Angeles. He later received a master’s degree in counseling and is a licensed professional counselor in Dallas, Texas. Reedy also holds licenses in varying forms of bodywork, including Neuromuscular Therapy and Reiki, the latter of which he was interviewed on Good Morning Texas. Reedy also has a history of teaching. He taught after-school programs for the Dallas Children’s Theater and then began a children’s acting program for the Playhouse of Park Cities, also in Dallas. After receiving his masters, Reedy taught adults as an adjunct professor at UTA and taught elementary-aged children in several after-school programs. When he has spare time, he continues to teach classes in Reiki and meditation.
About the Illustrator
Tom Fee began drawing when he was nine years old, and kept his imaginative spirit as he grew into adulthood. He received his BFA in advertising design at the University of North Texas. Afterward, he became an art director, designer, and creative director for several design studios in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. It was in the 1990s that he decided to go independent and open Tom Fee Graphic Design, where he had continued working as an illustrator for over twenty-five years. Before working on Reedy’s Monkey Mind Tales® book series, he lent his talents to a variety of children’s books, including A Tree Full Of Animals, The King of Camelot, and Revenge of The Snowman by R. L. Stine.
For more information, check out www.monkeymindtales.com.
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